Common US trees: care, risks and removal notes

Common trees found in US yards, streets and woodlots. Each page gives typical size, growth rate, USDA hardiness zones, lifespan, roots, a storm-risk rating, the best and worst times to prune, common pests and diseases, look-alike trees and notes for both homeowners and tree crews.

From well-established horticulture knowledge of the kind published by university extension services. Sizes and lifespans are typical ranges, not promises. For advice on one tree in your yard, ask a local certified arborist or your state extension office.

For many deciduous trees, late winter while the tree is dormant is a good default: you can see the branch structure and many pests are inactive. There are important exceptions. For example, oaks in areas with oak wilt are usually not pruned in spring and early summer. Each species page lists its own best and avoid times.

It is our plain low, medium or high rating for the species as a whole, based on things like wood strength, branch structure and root habit. It is not an inspection of your tree. A healthy high-risk species can be fine, and a low-risk tree with decay can fail. Have a pro look at any tree that worries you.

They are areas of the US grouped by average coldest winter temperature. Lower numbers are colder. A tree listed for zones 4 to 8 usually survives winters in those zones. Zones say nothing about summer heat, drought or soil, so they are only one part of choosing a tree.

No. It can tell you which species tend to fail and why, but only an on-site look can judge one tree. Read our guide on whether a tree is dangerous, keep people away from cracked or leaning trees, call the utility for any tree touching power lines and call 911 if someone is in danger.

No. Lirevon is a remote marketing team for tree service companies. We do not do tree work and we do not list or rank tree companies. To find a local insured pro, search Google Maps, read their reviews and get two or three written quotes.

Send a species link to a customer who asks why you recommend winter pruning or removal. Use the crew notes in tailgate talks. If you want more of those customer calls answered and booked, see our Never-Miss-A-Job System or ask for a free audit.